For those commuting through Faribault, brace yourselves for a bit of detouring as road construction sweeps through town. According to Rice County's announcement, a 1.1-mile stretch of roadwork is poised to start in late July, with detours not kicking in until mid-August.
It seems that I-35's Exit 55 is going to get a facelift with closures affecting the exit and entrance ramps at Phase 2A and 2B, respectively. The alterations are part of a larger project, segmented into five phases, aiming to streamline traffic and increase safety. For Lyndale Avenue frequenters, breathe easy because access to local businesses will stay intact. Convenience, it appears, takes precedence here.
For the nitty-gritty on the planned construction, Rice County's update outlines new right-turn lanes and trail-access ramps at key intersections. And let's not overlook Lane shifts during Phases 3A and 3B; commuters should gear up for a little game of musical lanes as things get moved around to give workers the space they need.
The ripple effect of roadwork doesn't stop at I-35. County Road 46 and 50 are also in the midst of construction, with closures and detours already confusing drivers. A shout-out to patience seems in order since these routes are gearing up for completion by the end of October. For those gridlocked by construction-induced delays, the end-of-October finish line might feel like a world away.
Looking down the road – and not too far off – there are also plans for a roundabout at Hwy. 19 and County Road 2, and repairs for County Road 11 following a slope failure last year. State funds are stepping up to the plate after a FEMA denial, with work slated for late 2025. So stack your playlists with some good tunes; from the looks of it, Rice County drivers might have a few more minutes to hum along to them in the coming months.
